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CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...
Why Small Manufacturers are Reluctant to Adopt 3D CAD?... and answers to show its definitely achievable for You

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

Why Small Manufacturers are Reluctant to Adopt 3D CAD?... and answers to show
its definitely achievable for You

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

Where as
many engineering businesses have embraced 3D CAD, many are reluctant, based on
a number of perceptions which still persist. Consequently there still exists a
number of small manufacturers who potentially could benefit and receive the
competitive advantages 3D CAD can deliver. Importantly their competitors, who
do embrace the technology, can quickly leave them behind and end up eating into
their market share. If 3D CAD can benefit your business in any way, don’t let
this be you.

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

The Cost of 3D CAD

Whereas once upon a time the cost of a 3D CAD seat was
difficult to justify for small manufacturers, this really isn’t the case
anymore.

Did you know you can access intermediate level 3D CAD software for free?
That's right FREE! Free to download and use, for those who possess no prior knowledge or for users who want to get another package under their belt. Open source communities have been used to develop the software and are available to answer queries and help users.

Even the best known vendors
(commonly seen as ‘the standard’ in some industry sectors), supply trial
versions and student editions. Investigate some of these starting with online
searches.

This ‘try before you buy’ approach may assist you ultimately make the
leap and invest in a CAD seat or two – and it really is an investment that
should pay massive dividends if exploited fully.

FreeCAD: A free to download CAD package available for no cost.

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

3D CAD Training

For somebody who has never used 3D CAD, it may initially
appear complicated. However the reality is there is a vast amount of assistance
and help available to meet this need. Firstly, all reputable CAD software
suppliers will provide tutorials with the software so you can learn in your own
time, step-by-step.

Additionally, websites like YouTube come into their own, as
a means of conveniently delivering 3D CAD training. Quick searches reveal
countless training guides, tutorials and worked examples for pretty much all CAD
software titles. These online videos can be paused, replayed and repeated
enabling you to learn at your own pace. Numerous tutorial books exist, as do
training courses supplied by software distributors, private tutors and local
colleges.

Colleagues and technical experts in your professional network may
also be able to help. CAD training has never been more accessible. Often what’s
needed is the will, a little research and building practice time into your
routine. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment.

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

Yes, but our products are too simple to benefit
from 3D CAD?

Some manufacturers commonly believe their products are so
simple they really don’t need 3D CAD. They claim 2D drawings are good enough.
However the problem with this thinking, is the full potential of 3D CAD data
all the way through the development and manufacturing process is lost.

It is
these through-life benefits, listed earlier, which give you commercial
advantage (and quickly provide a return on investment if you are initially
worried about the outlay). Additionally, just because products have been simple
until now, it may be unwise to limit yourself looking forward. Future client demands may request something
customised, perhaps something more complicated where 3D CAD is better suited
because of its advantages.

Even items which appear rudimentary, like simple flat sheet
metal parts, lend themselves to 3D data.
For example, they can be quickly uploaded onto CNC punches and laser
cutting equipment. What’s more, design integrity and dimensional accuracy remain
intact. Additionally, nobody has to re-programme machines, therefore
eliminating the potential to introduce mistakes, together with the time this
takes.

CAD Barriers to Adoption: Busting Myths...

I’ve used 2D Drawings for Years – I’ve No
Need for 3D CAD

Firstly past results are no guarantee of future success. In
just about all industry sectors competition is becoming fiercer and this is happening
at an ever faster rate. A tough economic environment, coupled with rising
energy and material costs, together with global competition and low cost
entrants, make for very tough trading conditions. What’s more, the trend seems
to be all one way.

Once upon a time, it was the most progressive manufacturers
who adopted these technologies, now businesses are striving for competitive
advantage just to survive. They are accepting the evidence, innovating and
modernising. The smart ones are increasing their awareness, learning from
others, adopting new ideas and improved the way they do things; to ensure they
are still trading this time next year.

Sticking your head in the sand frankly is
not an option. Countless businesses and indeed whole industry sectors simply
are not there anymore, basically because they didn’t innovate, move with the
times and become more competitive. Don’t let your business join that list.

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